Question:
I’ve been thinking about joining a gym and getting a little more serious about my training now that summer is here and I have more time. Is there any difference between Curves and a regular gym?
(Jane, West Islip)
Answer:
The fact that you have made a serious commitment about your training is a positive step in the right direction. Curves’ 30 minute workout is a great concept and will work for the novice trainee. Its program quickly moves participants from station to station doing interval training and using hydraulic machines. For example, when you do a biceps curl and flex, the biceps is worked and when you return to the opposite direction, you will be working your triceps. While this is time efficient, after awhile the changes and results will be minimal. However, using regular machines (like Cybex, Hammer, etc.) and free weights as found in gyms, you will be working the muscle in the concentric and eccentric phases- a more complete workout for the muscle. Also, Curves is not equipped with a lot of cardio machines like treadmills, stair climbers, bicycles, or classes like spinning, aerobics, kickboxing, etc. found in gyms. A good workout involves change and incorporates the principles of adaptation and overload.
So in the beginning Curves will work and be beneficial and the environment is not intimidating. However, after awhile you must step up to a health club or gym with more choices which will take you to the next level. Whatever your choice those curves will soon start to appear.
